RSU 23 board accepts staff hires, notes retirements and NEASC accreditation

The RSU 23 board voted unanimously May 9 to approve several staff appointments and recorded retirements the district will honor at next month’s meeting.

On a motion by Michelle Violette, seconded by Peter Flaherty, the board accepted the following hires: George Shabo as Behavioral Specialist; Patricia Elsemiller and Kristine Maturo as K–2 Interventionists; Joanne Dowd as Director of Instruction; and Nancy Smith as K–12 psychologist. The motion passed unanimously.

The board also recorded retirements announced in correspondence from Susan Flavey (kindergarten teacher), Carla Barron (high school special education teacher) and Lisa Kurtz (occupational therapist); the minutes state those staff will be honored at the next meeting.

Superintendent John Suttie said the high school received national accreditation from NEASC and noted the district must submit a two-year progress report addressing the accreditation committee’s recommendations by October 2018. Suttie also said the district sent a letter to families and high school students regarding the Netflix series "Thirteen Reasons Why," describing resources and how the district can support students; he invited anyone with concerns to contact him.

Gabe Reed provided a brief report on spring athletics, students’ internships and upcoming events: prom on May 19 and graduation on Sunday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m. Board members used their remarks to thank staff, administrators and community supporters.

Minutes were prepared by Helene Stevens and respectfully submitted by Superintendent John Suttie. The meeting adjourned at 6:46 p.m.